Skinny Hightower facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Skinny Hightower
Hightower in 2023
Background information
Birth name	Jason Carroll
Born	(1985-11-12) November 12, 1985 (age 39) Wichita, Kansas
Genres	Jazz, smooth jazz
Occupation(s)	Pianist
Instruments	Piano drums bass vibraphone
Years active	2016–present
Labels	Trippin 'N' Rhythm Records
Military career
Service/branch	United States Army
Years of service	2012–2017
Rank	Sergeant

Jason Carroll (born in 1985), known as Skinny Hightower, is an American jazz pianist. He is famous for his smooth jazz music. In 2020, his album Blue Moon was ranked among the top smooth jazz albums of the year. His song "Bittersweet" was also a top hit on the Billboard charts for smooth jazz.

Many of Hightower's songs have reached number one on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Airplay charts. These include "Blue Moon," "Now or Never," and "Taboo." "Blue Moon" also topped the Smooth Jazz Network's singles chart.

Early Life and Music Beginnings

Skinny Hightower was born in Wichita, Kansas, on November 12, 1985. His love for music started very early. When he was just two years old, he would sit with his dad and play the drums.

As he grew older, his interest in music continued. He started playing the piano at age eight. By age 12, he was also playing the bass guitar. Jazz and gospel music were his main inspirations back then. In high school, he played percussion in different bands, including the marching band and jazz band.

Music Career Journey

Early Career and First Album

From 2012 to 2017, Skinny Hightower served in the United States Army. He reached the rank of Sergeant. During his time in the Army, he recorded and released his first album, Cloud Nine, in 2016.

How He Got His Name

Skinny Hightower's stage name came from his friends in the Army. When they found out he was a jazz musician, they started calling him "Skinny Mr. Hightower." This was a funny reference to a character played by Steve Harvey in a TV show called The Steve Harvey Show.

Success with Blue Moon

In 2020, Skinny Hightower released his album Blue Moon. This album featured two more of his songs that hit number one on the Billboard charts. To create Blue Moon, he recorded 100 songs! From those, a team of 10 people helped him choose the best 24 for the album.

Music Releases

Studio Albums

Here are the albums Skinny Hightower has released:

Hit Singles

These are some of Skinny Hightower's popular single songs:

Music Collaborations

Skinny Hightower has also worked with other artists:

Live Performances

Music Festivals

Skinny Hightower has performed at these music festivals:

Learn More

• Jazz piano
• Smooth jazz
• List of jazz pianists
• Musicians from Wichita, Kansas